I think foiling can easily result in head injuries. I've been in multiple situations when the board comes too quickly at me If I fall in front of it. I don't want concussions.
I'm looking for as much protection as possible including the ears and the face.
At the moment I'm hesitating between two choices:
1) Gath Gedi helmet (https://gathsports.com/gath-sports-shop/gath-gedi/) with a full face visor (https://gathsports.com/gath-sports-shop ... ace-visor/)
and
2) GATH RV (Retractable Visor) Surf Hat (https://gathsports.com/gath-sports-shop/gath-rv/)
It seems that the RV Surf Hat has a bullet-proof visor. On the other hand, while the Gedi optional visor doesn't appear so strong it looks to me it'd be good enough protection against board coming at your face.
The Gedi is that it is a tougher helmet overall but frankly I doubt I'll ever be in a situation to hit my head against a tree or a wall; my objective is protection against the foil board.
Another downside of the Gedi, in my mind, is that the ear protection is removable and I imagine it can easily fall off?
The RV Surf Hat is more compact probably better when you fall in the water?
I've heard the term "bucket effect", not sure what it means
In other words, again, I really hesitate between the two. Who has experience with them? Which one are you happy with? Which one should I pick?
I don't plan on jumping with the foil or going high speed. I like slow speed strapless carving, and playing in small waves.